Cerro Tijeretas
A scenic viewpoint and snorkeling haven on San Cristobal, offering breathtaking coastal vistas and abundant marine life, including frigatebirds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Cerro Tijeretas
Best Time
Calm waters for snorkeling
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic viewpoint and snorkeling haven on San Cristobal, offering breathtaking coastal vistas and abundant marine life, including frigatebirds.
"A truly wonderful place to snorkel with families of sea lions, turtles, and iguanas!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paved paths and stairs make for a good workout. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
Darwin's Bay is fantastic for snorkeling, but conditions can change. Bring your own or rent nearby.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Summit Lookout
Breathtaking vistas of Isla San Cristobal's coastline and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Darwin's Bay Snorkeling
Base of the viewpoint
Vibrant underwater world teeming with sea lions, turtles, iguanas, and colorful fish.
Frigatebird Nesting Site
Surrounding Trees
Observe the iconic frigatebirds nesting and soaring in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Snorkeling Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Please help me with the planning and Suggestions
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paved paths and stairs make for a good workout. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
Darwin's Bay is fantastic for snorkeling, but conditions can change. Bring your own or rent nearby.
Which snorkeling beach on San Cristobal?
Snorkeling and Diving Recommendations
☀️ Protect Yourself
The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water for your visit.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Don't forget your camera to snap some memorable shots.
Galapagos Islands Trip Itinerary (May 2025) - Looking for feedback!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Paved paths and stairs make for a good workout. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring!
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
Darwin's Bay is fantastic for snorkeling, but conditions can change. Bring your own or rent nearby.
☀️ Protect Yourself
The sun is strong! Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water for your visit.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Don't forget your camera to snap some memorable shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cerro Tijeretas for its stunning panoramic views and excellent snorkeling opportunities at Darwin's Bay, where sea lions and turtles are common sightings. The free access and moderate hike make it a highly recommended spot for experiencing San Cristobal's natural beauty. Some find the snorkeling challenging in choppy conditions, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"A nice workout with a view! Paved with stairs... 2 miles of gorgeous views and native plants & animals."
Kathy T
"A truly wonderful place to snorkel. Families of Sea lions, turtles, iguanas and so many fish."
Mark Pardoe
"Free offering a great view of isla San Cristobal"
Bogdan Stere
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cerro Tijeretas is easily accessible from Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, the capital of San Cristobal. You can walk from the town center, which takes about 20-30 minutes, or take a short taxi ride. The path is well-marked and leads you towards the viewpoint and snorkeling area.
While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, you can usually find street parking near the entrance if you arrive by car or taxi. Walking is often the most convenient option from town.
After reaching the main viewpoint, follow the paths down towards Darwin's Bay. There are stairs and trails that lead directly to the water's edge, making it accessible for snorkelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Cerro Tijeretas is a free public access area, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity. You can enjoy the views and snorkeling without any admission cost.
Cerro Tijeretas is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. There are no strict opening or closing times, allowing you to visit at your convenience, though it's best to go during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
No, booking in advance is not necessary for Cerro Tijeretas. It's a natural attraction that you can visit spontaneously. If you plan to rent snorkeling gear, you can do so on-site or from shops in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot numerous frigatebirds nesting in the trees, sea lions lounging on the rocks and swimming in the bay, marine iguanas, and a variety of colorful fish while snorkeling. Keep an eye out for sea turtles too!
The hike involves paved paths and stairs, with some inclines. It's considered moderately easy, but can be a good workout. The effort is well worth it for the stunning views and the chance to see wildlife.
Calm mornings with minimal wind usually offer the best snorkeling conditions. If the wind picks up, the waves can create surge, making entry and exit more challenging.
Basic facilities may be available, but it's advisable to check locally. It's recommended to use restrooms before you go and to change into your snorkeling gear beforehand or be prepared to change discreetly.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit lookout offers incredible panoramic shots of the coastline. Darwin's Bay provides opportunities to photograph marine life, and the trees are perfect for capturing frigatebirds in their natural environment.
Early mornings offer softer light and calmer seas for snorkeling photos. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light for landscape shots of the coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Consider renting snorkeling gear in town to ensure a good fit for everyone. While the hike is moderate, keep a close eye on younger children, especially near the water's edge. The abundance of wildlife makes it an educational and exciting outing for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
Money-saving tips: Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated tourist prices. If you don't have your own snorkeling gear, compare rental prices in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno before heading to the site. Walking from town is the most economical way to reach Cerro Tijeretas, saving on taxi fares.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Darwin's Bay: A Snorkeler's Paradise
To make the most of your snorkeling adventure, it's highly recommended to bring your own gear or rent it from local shops in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. This ensures you have a comfortable and well-fitting mask and snorkel. The underwater scenery is truly spectacular, with vibrant coral formations and a constant stream of marine life. Even if the water is a bit choppy, the experience of floating alongside a curious sea lion or watching a marine iguana feed is unforgettable.
Remember to practice responsible snorkeling by not touching or disturbing the wildlife. Maintain a respectful distance and simply enjoy the privilege of sharing the ocean with these amazing creatures. The payoff for a little effort in navigating the waves is an unparalleled connection with the natural wonders of the Galapagos.
The Cerro Tijeretas Hike: Views and Wildlife
Beyond the stunning vistas, Cerro Tijeretas is a vital habitat for local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent frigatebirds, easily recognizable by their large wingspans and distinctive red pouches, which are often seen nesting in the surrounding trees. You might also spot marine iguanas basking on the rocks or scampering along the shore. The combination of the invigorating hike, the breathtaking scenery, and the close encounters with endemic wildlife makes Cerro Tijeretas a must-visit destination on San Cristobal.
It's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days. The path is generally well-marked, guiding you through the natural beauty of the area. The relatively short duration of the hike means you can easily incorporate it into a half-day exploration of the island's natural attractions.
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